Question

Imagine reading the ‘Nalayira Divyaprabandham’, a significant text in Tamil. Why is this collection often referred to as the Tamil Veda?

• A. It contains laws and regulations of Tamil society.
• B. It holds religious significance equivalent to Vedas.
• C. It is documented as a historical epic based on events.
• D. It serves as a manual for temple construction.

Hint:

In understanding sacred texts like the Nalayira Divyaprabandham, it is important to recognize their cultural and religious impact, as they are revered similarly to the Vedas in Tamil-speaking regions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The Nalayira Divyaprabandham is a collection of Tamil devotional hymns dedicated to Vishnu, composed by twelve Alvars (saints). These hymns are considered extremely sacred by Tamil Vaishnavites and are often referred to as the Tamil Veda due to their religious significance. Just as the Vedas are sacred texts in Sanskrit and are central to Hindu worship and rituals, the Divyaprabandham holds an equally significant religious role in Tamil culture.
Explanation of Other Options:
- Option (A): While the text contains religious and devotional content, it is not focused on laws and regulations of Tamil society. This makes this option incorrect. - Option (C): The Nalayira Divyaprabandham is not a historical epic; it is a collection of hymns that hold spiritual and religious value. - Option (D): The text does not specifically serve as a manual for temple construction, though it is closely linked with worship in temples
. Conclusion:
Thus, the correct answer is (B), as the Nalayira Divyaprabandham holds religious significance equivalent to the Vedas in Tamil Vaishnavism.